The right level of Maths and English

It is crucial that students choose courses in English and Mathematics, appropriate to their ability and interest.  This will ensure a positive and successful experience for students in Year 11 and 12.

The following guidelines should help students and their parents to choose the most appropriate courses in English and Mathematics.  The Head Teachers of these subjects are available to answer any further questions.

• Students who have placed in the top 24 positions in the year should cope positively with the demands of 2 Unit Mathematics and/or above.

• Students who have achieved over 80% in Year 10 English should consider Advanced English.

• Students who are passionate about English and who feel they can manage a university-style course should consider Extension English.

• Students who are considering alternate pathways (e.g. workplace, VET, TAFE) should strongly consider the English Studies course.

• Students who have placed in the 25th – 40th positions in the year for Maths could be considered for 2 Unit Mathematics but should understand that they may struggle with some aspects of the course and could be placed on probation in the course.

• Students who have placed below the above positions in the year should undertake Standard Mathematics.  Those students who undertake Standard Mathematics in Year 11 may, in Year 12, choose to study either the Standard Mathematics 2 course (ATAR eligible) or the Standard Mathematics 1 course (not calculated as part of the ATAR).

• When it comes to determining the appropriate senior pathway for a student in mathematics, students need to be aware that one major university –the University of Sydney – recently announced that from 2020 a number of its programs will require senior mathematics courses as prerequisites.

• The Preliminary Mathematics Standard course, and the HSC Mathematics Standard 1 and Standard 2 courses provide students with opportunity to develop understanding and competence in aspects of mathematics relevant to a range of vocational pathways, with a strong foundation for university courses such as the humanities, nursing and paramedical sciences.

• Preliminary and HSC Mathematics Advanced courses are recommended as the most appropriate basis for tertiary studies that require mathematics. These tertiary studies include life sciences economics, business, finance, technology, psychology and education. For students who require more substantial mathematics at a tertiary level, one or both Stage 6 Mathematics Extension courses are recommended.

• Mathematics Extension 1 provides students with the opportunity to develop a thorough understanding and competence in aspects of maths for further studies in maths itself, and in areas such as physics, chemistry, engineering, statistics, and computer science. Students with outstanding mathematical ability should also consider undertaking Mathematics Extension 2. This course provides a strong basis for a wide range of useful applications of maths at a high level, as well as a strong foundation for the further specialised study of the subject.